Social media is ubiquitous in today’s society. Social media provides an entirely new and increasingly common way to let others know our opinions and share just about any aspect of our daily lives. Still, there is one time when you might consider taking a social media break, and that is if you have been arrested and charged with a crime.
Why avoid social media following an arrest?
If you are arrested, it can be tempting to vent on social media. You want to share your side of the story. You might even think you have photos proving your innocence. Still, you should avoid taking to social media following criminal charges.
First, anything you might say outside of attorney-client privilege can be used against you. This includes statements made on social media. You might think you are just venting or explaining the situation, but these statements can be taken by the prosecution and used against you in a criminal case.
The same can be said for pictures and videos. You might think that by posting pictures and videos on social media, you can show you were with other people or in another place not associated with the alleged crime. Still, these photos and videos can be used by the prosecution in criminal proceedings against you.
Of course, you should never post photos or videos of alleged criminal activity. You might not think or know that what you did was illegal, but if you took a photo of yourself committing a crime and then posted the photo on social media, the police can find it and use it as a basis for your arrest.
Police and prosecutors monitor social media, and they will look for statements and images related to the crime you are alleged to have committed. It is better in such situations to simply keep quiet and avoid posting on social media following your arrest until your case is concluded.